Like pioneering Black motorcyclist Bessie Stringfield traveled cross-country delivering classified documents for the Army during World War II, Jan Emanuel-Costley today rides the nation’s roads on her Harley to raise money for breast cancer research.

For three years, Jan, who goes by her road name “Sunny The Diva,” has spearheaded annual motorcycle fundraising treks with fellow lady biking enthusiasts for her non-profit organization, Divas For A Cure “DFAC”(www.divasforacure.org).

The three rides have covered over 25,000 miles and raised $123,200 for M.D. Anderson Cancer Research Center in Houston, Texas. Harley-Davidson, the leading name in the motorcycle world, was the primary sponsor of the rides.

Stringfield, the first Black woman to ride across America on a motorcycle, was 16 when she learned to ride, as was Emanuel, in Oakland, where she grew up.

At 16, Emanuel was also diagnosed with a small cancerous cyst on her head that was removed, but returned later when she was 18, along with ear and jaw pain, and was removed again.

At 22, Sunny found the lump between her armpit and breast, but the doctor at the hospital she called said not to worry, she was too young to have cancer and wait to have it checked out at her next gynecology appointment.

After three months of pain, the lymph node area got inflamed and tender to the touch and when she called again, she says they said, oh, that’s definitely not cancer because cancer doesn’t hurt, and by the time cancer hurts, you’re almost dead.

“I was at work, but decided to just go to the emergency room anyway,” says Emanuel. “The doctor said I needed to schedule a mammogram immediately. The look on his face was tragic.

“After the mammogram he walked in and said you have breast cancer and we need to schedule you for a mastectomy. His bedside manner left a lot to be desired. I told him I was only 22, I came in the world with two breasts and I’m going to leave the world with two breasts, and you better figure out how to do it.”

Emanuel joined a study using newly developed laser techniques in conjunction with her hospital. The treatment worked, her breast was saved, and she hasn’t had a problem with it since.

But Sunny, now 51 and married with four adult children, says her positive outcome was a result of early detection and her persistence that something was wrong.

“According to statistics, White women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer, while minority women are more likely to die,” Sunny says. “Black women normally take too long to do follow-up, to get tested, don’t have adequate medical insurance, and we’re not educated. We’re definitely not pro-active and it’s still a hush-hush kind of disease.”

When Emanuel turned 28, she went into cardiac arrest and had a stroke. An aunt, Mary Clemons, who was also her godmother and with whom she lived for part of her adolescent life, was her caregiver during this period.

Sunny says, “My aunt came over and took care of me, changed my bandages, helped me use the bathroom, nursed me back to health, cooked, helped me with the kids, made sure I went for my checkups –– the whole nine yards –– but never once did she say she was sick herself. When she finally told us something was wrong, she was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer.

“The doctors said the cancer she had was 95 percent curable had she caught it early, but it had advanced from her breast to her arm into her neck and into her brain.”

Jan was in the room with her aunt when she died.

“It was such a life-altering experience,” she recalls. “At around the same time, someone dared me to ride my motorcycle across country. I said, not only will I ride across the country, I’ll get some other women to ride with me to raise money and we’ll donate it to a cancer foundation for research in my aunt’s name.”

Emanuel says she picked the M.D. Anderson Cancer Research Center in Houston, Texas to receive donations because they are leaders in cancer research (currently ranked number one in the nation) and in treating minorities, especially African American women. M.D. Anderson graciously agreed to name an exam room in its breast cancer center in honor of Divas For A Cure.

Emanuel in 1999 started her website, www.RealDivasRide.com, as an online motorcycle forum for women interested in the activity. That site spawned www.DivasForACure.org, which provides information on the annual rides.

Because she rides a Harley, Sunny approached the company to ask for their support, and they obliged. (On her website there’s a section titled “Why A Harley?” followed by a one-sentence answer, “If I have to explain it, you wouldn’t understand.”)

“We’re very excited about supporting their ride for the third year and supporting their initiatives to increase awareness and prevention of breast cancer; it’s a tremendous cause for us,” says Harley-Davidson spokesperson Karina Jaramillo. “We facilitate our relationship between the divas and many of our local dealers so they can come out to different dealerships during the course of their ride and do fundraising activities.”

A small group of women are selected to ride in the event each year. The inaugural ride in 2006 was 8,600 miles from San Francisco to New York and back in 22 days. Eight divas started, and Sunny was the only one who finished, but $25,000 was raised.

“I quickly found out you should limit cross-country riding to just a few divas,” Sunny says. “Anybody who calls themselves a Diva is going to probably have a personality, so with eight divas, there were some conflicts. Mix hot weather, motorcycles and long distances, and it becomes volatile, especially over 22 days.”

She repeated the event in 2007 to prove that the initial success was not a fluke. This ride, with five divas, went 7,300 miles from Oakland to Maryland and back, and raised $50,000.

The 2008 ride was 6,000 miles from New Jersey, down to Atlanta, up to Canada and back, and raised $35,000. There were only four divas riding this time – Costley, the organization’s vice president AJ Coffee, Cynthia Marcy, and Elaine Thomas.

“It’s a very hard ride,” Sunny explains. “Most people when they sign up think of a nice little leisurely cross-country tour – make stops, take pictures, shop. It’s not like that. After riding all day, all you’re looking for is a shower and pillow at Motel 6, Motel 4, even Motel 2 – you don’t care at that point!” she says.

The divas ride almost 500 miles a day, between 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. to avoid nighttime riding hazards, and have to keep to a strict timetable to honor their Harley-Davidson dealership appearances.

They are accompanied by members of the Buffalo Soldiers motorcycle club –– Sunny is married to the former national president of the organization, Thomas Costley –– and they are followed by a support van that carries their clothes, supplies, and food.

“People sign up to ride with us for a leg or two and they pay a registration fee, but after a (short) while, they’re like, ‘this is crazy, this ain’t no fun! All we’re doing is riding and sleeping!’ But I say, ‘And raising money!’ That’s the important thing,” Emanuel says.

It is very taxing on the body and finances to maintain an annual cross-country motorcycle trek, so in 2010 Emanuel and Divas For A Cure took some time off from the annual breast cancer run to recoup and reorganize.

Barb’s Harley-Davidson is a woman-owned dealership in Mt. Ephraim, NJ. Barb and her staff actively support the community on all fronts. They were diligent in their efforts to help support Divas For A Cure and in 2010 took up the helm to support them on a local level.

In 2010, Barb kicked-off the First Annual Barb’s Harley-Davidson Divas For A Cure Breast Cancer Ride to help continue the efforts.

It is with the united efforts of Barb, her staff and the motorcycle community that DFAC can continue to make a difference.

In 2011, Sunny found another lump, so without hesitation she sought medial advice from a Breast Surgeon. The surgeon determined that a lumpectomy would be necessary. Her advice was simple. Let’s not fool around with this. The surgery was slightly delayed due to a pre-existing heart condition. The surgeon removed four growths and surrounding tissue. The pathology report came back – “all margins clear.”

The surgery was a success and Emanuel was back on her iron horse in no time.

And yes, it’s 2012 and she is still rolling. Emanuel averages about 7 – 10,000 miles a year on her iron horse.

So, if a woman on a bright red Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic with pink bling on her helmet passed you on the highway – it was probably “The Diva.”

Three years in a row, I road across country with a group of women and men raising money for Breast Cancer Research and promoting Early Detection. Each year, I also do a local Breast Cancer Ride from Barb’s H-D to continue our efforts to promote Early Detection and support the cure in our community.

This year I decided to take a “Solo Ride” just for me. Sometimes, you’ve just have to step out on “Faith!” My scheduled journey would take me through New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas.

On Friday April 27th, I departed New Jersey headed for my 1st stop (Northern Virginia Buffalo Soldiers Annual). My husband (TC Costley) road with me to Virginia. For the first time, I was leading the way and I was a bundle of nerves but TC insisted that I had to do it all the way. Well, you can’t wear the title “The Diva” and not rise to the challenge. So, off I go on my “Little Red Bike with White Walls with TC’s trailer in tow.”

Before getting on the road, TC gave me a real lesson on safety checks, tire pressure, trailer tire pressure and how to change the tire.

We sat down and reviewed the map of my route. TC insisted I become familiar with reading a map and paying attention to road signs and mile markers. He reminded me of the miles of road I had already traveled and assured me that I could do it and that he was very confident in my riding skills.

I had my motorcycle serviced at Barb’s Harley-Davidson where I know they take good care of their customers, so I knew my horse was ready and now so was I.

We arrived in Virginia on Friday afternoon and fellowship with a few friends in the motorcycle community. We went to the NoVBSMC Annual Barb-B-Que and as always we were in good company with old friends. This is where TC and I parted ways. He said our goodbyes and headed back to New Jersey. I was truly on my own and there was no turning back for me at this point! I would spend another night in Virginia to attend the dance with the soldiers and then depart Sunday morning on my own. I can’t imagine what he was thinking on his ride home but I could not sleep from the anxiety of beginning this journey alone.

Well, 5:00 AM Sunday morning came way too soon! It had rained the night before and the ground was still wet and the fog made the sky hazy and cold. I was prepared for every riding condition but hoped not to have to use any rain gear. I dressed in three layers of clothing, put on my reflective water proof jacket, heavy jeans and waterproof over-pants. I loaded the trailer, grabbed a cup of coffee, wiped down the bike and was ready to roll. I took a big breath and paused to ask for God’s Blessings. I never ride without prayer and giving God praise but then that’s just me!

I turned on my iPod, checked my map which was taped to my windshield bag with some trusty “Duck Tape” and turned on my GoPro to record the moment.

TC and I have a rule when we ride – we put in the 125 miles before we stop to eat and if we are feeling really good, we wait until lunch time to make the daylight count. After riding 2.5 days(1,674 miles) I arrived safely at my sister’s home in League City, TX.

After having a wonderful time visiting with my sister and friends I received a phone call from my Grandmother. I knew right away by her voice that something was wrong. She told me my mother was in ICU in Atlanta and it was not looking good. I called TC and told him the news. Without hesitation, TC told me that Atlanta was an easy ride for me from Houston, TX – almost a straight shot. Thunderstorms had already delayed my return to New Jersey but now all I needed was to be at least a day ahead of the storm.

Goldrush “Our Best Man” stopped by to see me before I hit the road. He has been a good friend to both TC and I over the years.

I said my good-byes to Pam and Ruffus, loaded up the trailer and was ready to roll again. This time, time was of the essence. My mother’s condition was unsure and I didn’t want to waste much time.

While en-route to Atlanta, I stopped in Alabama where I was greeted by our good friend “Smokey” from the Montgomery BSMC. Smokey and some fellow clubs in the motorcycle community were on a mission helping provide support to a Homeless Shelter and Food Pantry. The fellow bikers were full of questions and praise. We took pictures, shared a few laughs and I was off on the road again.

I was locked and loaded and made it to Atlanta in 1.5 days (850 miles). I arrived ahead of schedule to Atlanta.

I sent out an SOS to a fellow Soldier “Billy D” and while waiting for him to arrived I had the pleasure of meeting a “Fellow Survivor.” Pat was just finishing up chemo and her good friend Janelle introduced us after striking up a conversation with me.

Janelle said, she couldn’t help but notice me in pink, on a bike and pulling a trailer. We laughed and exchanged information. Pat and Janelle work together as Flight Attendants. Pat said, Janelle had been a great support during her battle with breast cancer. It is good to meet women who support each other in good and bad times.

I was greeted by Billy D from the BSMC of Atlanta. Billy D and Lady P opened the doors of their home for me to shower, rest, relax and to meet my Grandmother and Cousin before escorting us to our hotel. Not knowing what was ahead of us we were very thankful for their generous hospitality.

Lady P and Billy D have been supporters of Divas For A Cure since our inception and we remain forever friends.

Billy D escorted us to the hotel and helped up get settled. The next day we were able to finally see my mom in ICU. It was a bitter sweet moment. We spent Mother’s Day with Mom and it helped to brighten everyone’s spirit.

The ride home to New Jersey was long. My Solo Ride was nearing an end. I left Atlanta early in the moring 6 AM to be exact. After four gas stops and 500+ miles I was in Petersburg, VA with only 300 miles to go – I decided to take in on in!

Once again, TC celebrated me with a confident sound in his voice and told me, “Okay, if you feel up to it – press on!” A few more gas stops under my belt I called him to update him on my status. It would be dark and I don’t see well and have a rule that I generally don’t ride past dark. TC told me he would meet me at the Cracker Barrel just after I crossed the Delaware Memorial Bridge” and escort me home. I was relieved.

My Final mileage. (New Jersey to Houston TX then Atlanta to New Jersey) Total miles: 3,355.

The journey was worth every mile. I can now cross this off my “Bucket List.”

It’s not often you get the opportunity to take real advantage of having some time off from work. Well, I decided to challenge myself to a long distance journey, so I embarked on a little “Solo Ride” (New Jersey to Texas). This journey would take me through 9 states ( New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas), averaging approximately 565 miles a day.

Below is a highlight of the route (not exact) but close.

So, the journey begins…

The trip was magical. The weather was almost perfect and my motorcycle performed outstandingly. I was pulling my husband’s trailer so, I was very hesitant in the beginning but once I got into the groove it was smooth sailing. There were people on the road who gave me the thumbs up and those who honked their horns and waved. Truckers who gave me the right of way and some who simply stared at me in amazement. I had to pinch myself a few times too!

I was able to pace myself so that I could enjoy the scenery and the ride. It was one of those times when you wished you had someone along to share the evening with but glad you didn’t so you could just enjoy God’s blessing without any interruptions.

I check-in by phone with my husband (“TC”) at each gas and rest stop. I also sent a text to my family and friends so, I would not be delayed by having to call everyone with my status.

Well, now that I’m all rested, relaxed and my trailer is full of goodies, I will have to make the trip back. So stay tuned for more updates.

Recently, the Real Divas Ride/Divas For A Cure Breast Cancer logo was pirated by Pinocchio’s Ride For The TaTas affiliated with Moms On The Run. This company and organization used an unauthorized edited version of the RDR/DFAC logo to promote and raise money without our permission, consent or knowledge and ultimately misled people into believing they were affiliated with DFAC.

Although, we were successful in having them to remove our logo from their website, marketing material and using it to promote their event – we did not receive any benefit from the money they raised.

This prompted us to update our website. Hopefully, we will not encounter anymore logo pirates who prey off of small grass root organizations. Well, you know the story doesn’t end here but that’s a legal matter that we hope to resolve soon.

The inventor of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle, Arthur Davidson, died and went to heaven.

God recognized Arthur and commented, “Okay, so you were the one who invented motorcycles, eh?”

“Yeah, that’s me…” said Arthur.

“Well, what’s the big deal in inventing something that’s pretty unstable, makes noise and pollution, and can’t run without a road?”

Arthur was apparently embarrassed, but finally spoke, “Excuse me, but aren’t you the inventor of woman?”

God said, “Ah, yes.”

“Well,” said Arthur, “professional to professional, you have some major design flaws in your invention.”

1. There’s too much inconsistency in the front-end protrusion
2. It chatters constantly at high speeds
3. Most of the rear ends are too soft and wobble too much
4. The intake is placed way too close to the exhaust
5. And the maintenance costs are outrageous!!

“Hmm, you may have some good points there,” replied God, “Hold on.” God went to his Celestial super-computer, typed in a few words, and waited for the results. The computer printed out a slip of paper and God read it.

“Well, it may be true that my invention is flawed,” God said to Arthur, “but according to these numbers, more men are riding my invention than yours!”

The Real Divas Ride “RDR” and the Divas For A Cure “DFAC” logo is propriatery property of Real Divas Ride. Use of the Real Divas Ride and the Divas For A Cure “DFAC” Name or Logo for fundraising without prior written consent is strictly prohibited.

A sport made popular by such movies as “Easy Rider, Wild One, and On Any Sunday” depicted motorcycle riders as free spirits and rebels.

Today, the face of motorcycle riders has taken on a new look. What was once a past-time dominated by men has finally evolved. Motorcycle riders have often been stereotyped as daredevils and gangs with criminal elements. Not so, according to most motorcycle enthusiasts.

The new era of riders now includes women from all walks of life, backgrounds and professions. Gone are the days of women only riding behind their male counterpart. Many women not only ride but own their own motorcycles. A vast number of them are choosing to ride Harley-Davidson® motorcycles that are customarily ridden by men, such as Softails, Fat Boys, Road Kings and the like.

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The Real Divas Ride “RDR” and the Divas For A Cure “DFAC” logo is propriatery property of Real Divas Ride. Use of "RDR" and the "DFAC" Name or Logo for fundraising without prior written consent is strictly prohibited.